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It's a Sgian Dubh (Black knife). It was originally developed from a knife called the sgian-achlais that was hidden under the arm. Interestingly, the word dubh also can be translated as "hidden". In 17th and 18th century Scotland, courtesy and etiquette would demand that when entering the home of a friend, any concealed weapons would be revealed.; thus, the sgian-achlais would be removed from its hiding-place and displayed in the stocking top held by the garters. Over time, the size of the knife was reduced so that it could be carried there permanently. It was basically the EDC of Scotland; it was originally used for eating and preparing fruit, meat, and cutting bread and cheese - as well as serving for other more general day to day uses such as cutting material and protection. Today it is basically ceremonial, worn with a dress uniform. The filework on the side is traditional, but usually only consists of about 6 "teeth" extending halfway down the side. And before you ask, yes most of my family is from Scotland originally. Oh, and it is absolutely beautiful, as usual Randy. I guess we should cry havoc now.

Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries. Now go away you silly man or I shall taunt you a second time!

Wow that is fantastic! Unfortunately, most sgian dubhs i see nowadays are fake (no blade just a handle and sheath) and i have never ever saw a bladed one that has a working edge, which is a real shame and kind of sad given the heritage. I work at a 14th century Scottish castle doing lots of weddings so come across a lot of these chaps. Seeing this has given me some thought about investing in a real deal one of these. Randy, i will be in touch!

It's a Sgian Dubh (Black knife). It was originally developed from a knife called the sgian-achlais that was hidden under the arm. Interestingly, the word dubh also can be translated as "hidden". In 17th and 18th century Scotland, courtesy and etiquette would demand that when entering the home of a friend, any concealed weapons would be revealed.; thus, the sgian-achlais would be removed from its hiding-place and displayed in the stocking top held by the garters. Over time, the size of the knife was reduced so that it could be carried there permanently. It was basically the EDC of Scotland; it was originally used for eating and preparing fruit, meat, and cutting bread and cheese - as well as serving for other more general day to day uses such as cutting material and protection. Today it is basically ceremonial, worn with a dress uniform. The filework on the side is traditional, but usually only consists of about 6 "teeth" extending halfway down the side. And before you ask, yes most of my family is from Scotland originally. Oh, and it is absolutely beautiful, as usual Randy. I guess we should cry havoc now.

Ed, Thanks for the added info. This is the 5th Dubh I have made. The first 4 were for a family and were quite awesome. One of them went to the father. he had 2 sons who each received one. and one of his sons has a 18 year old son who also received one. Each was different yet all were similar. The names on each box were different and descriptive. Its always a honor to make a knife for someone. But it was really a treat to make these for the family. and be part of such a cool project!

This one is also different from the first 4 and yet of them all I think this one is my favorite!

What is the significance of the badger fur to these?

Blessings!
Randy

Inspired by God, Forged by Fire, Tempered by Water, Grounded by Earth, Guided by the spirit.. Randy Haas